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T.E.D.
TIM is being bullied. No one in high school wants to be known as a tattle-tale and to do so would only make things rougher for him. The repercussions would most likely make him an outcast, and without any friends.
ERIC is frustrated with life. His parents are overbearing and if they ever knew the person he really was, they would throw him out of their house. His friends are not much better, they only like him when he is who they expect him to be.
DELSIN is gay and ready to come out. Unfortunately, life at home is on the brink of falling apart with his parents constant fighting. Admitting the truth could bring his whole world crashing down around him.
Each of these three needs to decide whether the risks of being honest about who they are outweighs the importance of being true to themselves. This could mean ruining life as each of them knows it. Maybe it is better to remain miserable in order to play it safe. On the other hand, doing nothing doesn’t seem to working either.
ERIC is frustrated with life. His parents are overbearing and if they ever knew the person he really was, they would throw him out of their house. His friends are not much better, they only like him when he is who they expect him to be.
DELSIN is gay and ready to come out. Unfortunately, life at home is on the brink of falling apart with his parents constant fighting. Admitting the truth could bring his whole world crashing down around him.
Each of these three needs to decide whether the risks of being honest about who they are outweighs the importance of being true to themselves. This could mean ruining life as each of them knows it. Maybe it is better to remain miserable in order to play it safe. On the other hand, doing nothing doesn’t seem to working either.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 8, 2014
2 people are currently reading
497 people want to read
About the author
Jayson James
21 books66 followersAuthor of novels and short stories. Jayson James graduated from Western Washington University with a bachelor's degree in education. He was born and raised in Washington State, where he currently lives and teaches. Jayson's interests beyond writing include reading a variety of books, watching movies and drawing.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
February 11, 2014
As someone who has read all of Jayson's books, this one really hit home for me. T.E.D, Ted Eric Delsin, was written from each of the boys' points of view, Tim's being first person and Eric & Delsin's being in the third. I've never read a book written like that, and I really enjoyed it.
I never give spoilers in my reviews, for the first time ever I am actually having a hard time not doing just that!
Each of these three characters was relatable, and real. I liked that this book had some darker tones to it than any of the other books Jayson has written to date. Just that little addition to the story, bumped up the emotions so much.
Over the course of the book, you learn so much about each of the characters lives both in and outside of school. Each has such a different story and they just blended together well.
Tim's story is heart wrenching and I felt for everything he went through( again having a hard time not spoiling!) Eric and Delsin both have secrets that could turn their lives upside down.
Once again the reactions to people coming out, is very similar to what I have seen happen to people in real life. Some are positive and some, turn pretty ugly.
I cannot wait to see what Jayson will write and release in the future!
I never give spoilers in my reviews, for the first time ever I am actually having a hard time not doing just that!
Each of these three characters was relatable, and real. I liked that this book had some darker tones to it than any of the other books Jayson has written to date. Just that little addition to the story, bumped up the emotions so much.
Over the course of the book, you learn so much about each of the characters lives both in and outside of school. Each has such a different story and they just blended together well.
Tim's story is heart wrenching and I felt for everything he went through( again having a hard time not spoiling!) Eric and Delsin both have secrets that could turn their lives upside down.
Once again the reactions to people coming out, is very similar to what I have seen happen to people in real life. Some are positive and some, turn pretty ugly.
I cannot wait to see what Jayson will write and release in the future!
February 22, 2014
I had no idea what to expect when I started this book but was so pleasantly surprised as it is a real page turner and not a book you could put down easily.
I guess I would describe this book as a coming of age story although I feel any age group would thoroughly enjoy it!
This is a story of Three totally different boys learning to cope with the problems in each of their life's. Not only are they dealing with friendship, sexuality, bullying homophobic parents, loss, and suicidal thoughts they are also dealing with what most teenagers have to go through when finding there own identities. This is a beautifully written book which took me on a emotional journey with Tim, Eric and Delsin. These boys certainly grew on me as I could feel my motherly instincts kicking in wanting to nurture them all. The ending was brilliant, I could not have wished for a better conclusion for these boys especially after the traumatic year they had been through together!
I do have more of Jayson James books on my Kindle which I am looking forward to reading.
Highly recommended!!
I guess I would describe this book as a coming of age story although I feel any age group would thoroughly enjoy it!
This is a story of Three totally different boys learning to cope with the problems in each of their life's. Not only are they dealing with friendship, sexuality, bullying homophobic parents, loss, and suicidal thoughts they are also dealing with what most teenagers have to go through when finding there own identities. This is a beautifully written book which took me on a emotional journey with Tim, Eric and Delsin. These boys certainly grew on me as I could feel my motherly instincts kicking in wanting to nurture them all. The ending was brilliant, I could not have wished for a better conclusion for these boys especially after the traumatic year they had been through together!
I do have more of Jayson James books on my Kindle which I am looking forward to reading.
Highly recommended!!
March 11, 2014
T.E.D. brings together three unique characters whose stories interweave as they face the challenges of growing up.
In some ways I was surprised by this story. For some reason I had expectations that the story would be very much focused on the experiences of dealing with being gay - I think this expectation came from the shelving of the book (on Amazon and GR) - but although the issue of coming out is very much part of this story, it is not its entirety.
The story encompasses general bullying and the total shits that kids can be towards one another. It deals with torment and pain and physical bullying. It deals with being bullied for who you are and being bullied for something that isn't even true.
It deals with the impact of parental disputes and how this affects home life. It deals with homelessness, sexual aggression by other teens, first crushes and keeping up appearances. It raises the topic of suicide.
I actually found the book a little bit hard going, not a casual quick read. I think this was due to the nature of the topic and the sense of sadness and melancholy to the story. The language of the book captured the immaturity of the boys, particularly Tim's story which was largely told by diary entry, an interesting first person perspective but with very much a childlike feel.
But there is hope and an ending that reminds us of the value of friendship and reminds us that Tim, Eric and Delsin are just boys at heart.
3.5 stars
A copy of this book was provided by the author in return for my honest review.
Visit my blog if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place! Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
In some ways I was surprised by this story. For some reason I had expectations that the story would be very much focused on the experiences of dealing with being gay - I think this expectation came from the shelving of the book (on Amazon and GR) - but although the issue of coming out is very much part of this story, it is not its entirety.
The story encompasses general bullying and the total shits that kids can be towards one another. It deals with torment and pain and physical bullying. It deals with being bullied for who you are and being bullied for something that isn't even true.
It deals with the impact of parental disputes and how this affects home life. It deals with homelessness, sexual aggression by other teens, first crushes and keeping up appearances. It raises the topic of suicide.
I actually found the book a little bit hard going, not a casual quick read. I think this was due to the nature of the topic and the sense of sadness and melancholy to the story. The language of the book captured the immaturity of the boys, particularly Tim's story which was largely told by diary entry, an interesting first person perspective but with very much a childlike feel.
But there is hope and an ending that reminds us of the value of friendship and reminds us that Tim, Eric and Delsin are just boys at heart.
3.5 stars
A copy of this book was provided by the author in return for my honest review.
Visit my blog if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place! Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
February 17, 2014
This book was deep. It explored so many feelings teenagers experience. Tim had a great family, supportive parents who accepted him just as he was, but he was overwhelmed at school being bullied, and with those loving parents, he didn't talk to them about it. Then there is Delsin whose parents were dicks, they fought and argues, without caring how their kids felt, bringing Delsin into it, forcing him to chose sides. And finally Eric, the bully, who had the shitiest, homophobic parents who had already kicked one gay son out of the house. Eric missed his brother, had no love or support from his family, was being abused....not saying more because of spoilers.....all three used to be friends years ago, but now aren't. A lot of the story is journal entries by Tim. I loved Tim's parents. They were parents, who when they saw a child hurting, regardless of 'circumstances' ( avoiding a spoiler), they went into protect mode.
Maybe all a bully really needs is the love and acceptance of a parent or someone, to make them feel good about themselves, so they don't have to hurt someone else.
This is an over-simplified synopsis of the book. It made me think and once again ask my kids if they are bullied at school or if they have seen anyone else bullied. I reiterated, never stand by and watch. Notify someone if standing up to them will put them in harm's way.
I knew I would love this book simply because of who wrote it. I was not disappointed!
Maybe all a bully really needs is the love and acceptance of a parent or someone, to make them feel good about themselves, so they don't have to hurt someone else.
This is an over-simplified synopsis of the book. It made me think and once again ask my kids if they are bullied at school or if they have seen anyone else bullied. I reiterated, never stand by and watch. Notify someone if standing up to them will put them in harm's way.
I knew I would love this book simply because of who wrote it. I was not disappointed!
February 13, 2014
Original Blog Post: http://headouttheoven.blogspot.com/20...
Three best friends. Tim, Eric and Delsin. Growing up together, inseparable. Things go wrong for apparently no reason. Now it is only Tim and Delsin.
Tim is trapped. Caught in his own fears: should he tell or not? Why is he labelled gay when he is clearly heterosexual? Why? Why? Why? He questions. He tries to find answers. Will he lose out in the end?
Eric looks in from afar, always regretting. Always in fear. Losing himself in his rage, he lashes out on the one person he saw as weaker.
Delsin is Tim's protector. He made sure Tim makes it through the day. His secret lies deep within him and just wants to break out and be free once and for all.
T.E.D. is a story about the complexities three boys face on their journey to their coming of age. It is a story peppered with laughter, friendship, love, regret, fear, pain and trying to come to terms with their own sexualities. It is a well-crafted drama that gives readers a taste of innocence, of first love, and the drama of how life can go wrong. For the three best friends, this is their time, of how they created memories which would last them a lifetime. When they finally realize what life could be all about.
T.E.D. is the type of story that reminds me of books like "Stand By Me" and movies like "The Kings of Summer." Three boys on the cusp of adulthood. It is dramatic, it is hilarious, it is sweet, it is romantic.
It is blunt. It is cruel. It is life.
There is a kind of looseness in the telling of their story. Seen from Tim's perspective through his diary and as a narrative from outside that diary. The reader gets a full disclosure of their lives but does not gets entangled. The reader is always on the outside, looking in.
I was expecting some heavy handed drama. I thought: okay, another YA filled with all the angst that may leave a bad taste in the mouth. But no. This is not the case. This was a refreshing and relatively light read which was what had me surprised. I found myself drawn deep into the story making it very, very hard to put down.
I wanted to know how these three young men would finally get their lives sorted, what drove them to the decisions they made and whether they regret the results.
T.E.D. A story of three young men who never gave up.
Beautiful.
Three best friends. Tim, Eric and Delsin. Growing up together, inseparable. Things go wrong for apparently no reason. Now it is only Tim and Delsin.
Tim is trapped. Caught in his own fears: should he tell or not? Why is he labelled gay when he is clearly heterosexual? Why? Why? Why? He questions. He tries to find answers. Will he lose out in the end?
Eric looks in from afar, always regretting. Always in fear. Losing himself in his rage, he lashes out on the one person he saw as weaker.
Delsin is Tim's protector. He made sure Tim makes it through the day. His secret lies deep within him and just wants to break out and be free once and for all.
T.E.D. is a story about the complexities three boys face on their journey to their coming of age. It is a story peppered with laughter, friendship, love, regret, fear, pain and trying to come to terms with their own sexualities. It is a well-crafted drama that gives readers a taste of innocence, of first love, and the drama of how life can go wrong. For the three best friends, this is their time, of how they created memories which would last them a lifetime. When they finally realize what life could be all about.
T.E.D. is the type of story that reminds me of books like "Stand By Me" and movies like "The Kings of Summer." Three boys on the cusp of adulthood. It is dramatic, it is hilarious, it is sweet, it is romantic.
It is blunt. It is cruel. It is life.
There is a kind of looseness in the telling of their story. Seen from Tim's perspective through his diary and as a narrative from outside that diary. The reader gets a full disclosure of their lives but does not gets entangled. The reader is always on the outside, looking in.
I was expecting some heavy handed drama. I thought: okay, another YA filled with all the angst that may leave a bad taste in the mouth. But no. This is not the case. This was a refreshing and relatively light read which was what had me surprised. I found myself drawn deep into the story making it very, very hard to put down.
I wanted to know how these three young men would finally get their lives sorted, what drove them to the decisions they made and whether they regret the results.
T.E.D. A story of three young men who never gave up.
Beautiful.
August 13, 2016
Review by Lily, posted on ScuttlebuttReviews
This story delves into topics including bullying, sexual harassment/ dubious consent, trouble at home, depression, suicidal thoughts, and mental health issues.
T.E.D. touched my core for many reasons, and made me cry my eyes out at times and giggle at others, but I couldn’t put it down until I finished the last page. Please do not think it is a depressing story, because there is a wonderful HEA and is skips any melodrama. This book is truly written with total empathy and insight.
I was blown away with the graceful, meticulous flow from page to page, and event to event. Each character’s story is written from their individual perspective somehow without losing the connection with the others. It was like watching a movie. Jayson’s stories always feel like that to me.
Jayson wrote Tim’s story with such empathy, it initially broke my heart. But he did not leave Tim a total victim. He helped Tim grow.
Eric’s story is done with a total understanding. Eric’s actions are never justified, but rather shown as what they are. No excuses are given for Eric’s behaviour, but everything is explained eloquently.
Then Delsin is added, and he brings a total balance. Again, Delsin is written with empathy and a critical eye to ensure the story is neither fluffy nor melodramatic. There is just a perfect balance to raise the reader’s understanding about growing up in differing home environments.
As usual, Jayson writes with a deep message that leaves his readers emotional and thoughtful about the characters and story they’ve read. He does that without demoralizing readers, so they can close the book at the end with a smile and sense of relief for the characters.
This story delves into topics including bullying, sexual harassment/ dubious consent, trouble at home, depression, suicidal thoughts, and mental health issues.
T.E.D. touched my core for many reasons, and made me cry my eyes out at times and giggle at others, but I couldn’t put it down until I finished the last page. Please do not think it is a depressing story, because there is a wonderful HEA and is skips any melodrama. This book is truly written with total empathy and insight.
I was blown away with the graceful, meticulous flow from page to page, and event to event. Each character’s story is written from their individual perspective somehow without losing the connection with the others. It was like watching a movie. Jayson’s stories always feel like that to me.
Jayson wrote Tim’s story with such empathy, it initially broke my heart. But he did not leave Tim a total victim. He helped Tim grow.
Eric’s story is done with a total understanding. Eric’s actions are never justified, but rather shown as what they are. No excuses are given for Eric’s behaviour, but everything is explained eloquently.
Then Delsin is added, and he brings a total balance. Again, Delsin is written with empathy and a critical eye to ensure the story is neither fluffy nor melodramatic. There is just a perfect balance to raise the reader’s understanding about growing up in differing home environments.
As usual, Jayson writes with a deep message that leaves his readers emotional and thoughtful about the characters and story they’ve read. He does that without demoralizing readers, so they can close the book at the end with a smile and sense of relief for the characters.
April 17, 2014
T.E.D. by Jayson James is just WOW. This book should be required reading for all teenagers. I could feel my heart breaking for Tim. While Eric was a bully, once you learned what his home life was like and what he was struggling with, you could not help but to feel sorry for him. These characters seem real to the reader because this kind of stuff happens every day in schools across the country.
If ever the was a book that needed to be written, it was this one. This gives a bird’s eye view of the effect that bullying can have on a person. That is not what the whole story is about, but it is what stood out to me. This story also showcases how strong friendships can be and how broken friendships can be mended. There is so much I could say about this book, too much to put into one review.
This book definitely gets 5 stars from me. This is one of the best young adults’ book that I have read so far. I would recommend everyone to read this book and if you have teenagers, to make them read it too.
If ever the was a book that needed to be written, it was this one. This gives a bird’s eye view of the effect that bullying can have on a person. That is not what the whole story is about, but it is what stood out to me. This story also showcases how strong friendships can be and how broken friendships can be mended. There is so much I could say about this book, too much to put into one review.
This book definitely gets 5 stars from me. This is one of the best young adults’ book that I have read so far. I would recommend everyone to read this book and if you have teenagers, to make them read it too.
April 12, 2014
Wow; where to start! This book was amazing and very well written. It's not my normal read; but I have to say, I absolutely loved it! It's about 3 teenage boys; all who come from somewhat different backgrounds and all have their own set of life's challenges and problems to deal with. This book will tug at your heartstrings for sure. It really lets you see the affects of how you behave and treat others makes them feel. There are so many people that could benefit from reading this book; no matter if you are the bully, abused or friends. It really opens your eyes to how yours actions make others feel. As I read this book; I kept thinking to myself; there is no way one can write this without actually living it.... it's THAT good! Trust me; buy it - read it- you will love it! I have already recommended this to a few friends; and will continue to do so! This is a stand alone book with no cliffhanger. Can't wait to see what Jayson comes out with next!
March 15, 2014
Totally awesome book - different to what I usually read - but it was wonderful.
It seemed to take a while to get to know the characters, but I can see why after finishing the book that you needed to know everything about them. That said I had to keep reading once half way through, the book took turns you were not expecting and reactions from people were not who you expected to show emotion.
This was a thought provoking book, and I am so glad that I read it - I have already recommended to others to read. In fact I want to get a paperback version of this book to give to my 16 yr old son to read, as I think it will give him insight into growing up and that all kids have problems.
It seemed to take a while to get to know the characters, but I can see why after finishing the book that you needed to know everything about them. That said I had to keep reading once half way through, the book took turns you were not expecting and reactions from people were not who you expected to show emotion.
This was a thought provoking book, and I am so glad that I read it - I have already recommended to others to read. In fact I want to get a paperback version of this book to give to my 16 yr old son to read, as I think it will give him insight into growing up and that all kids have problems.
May 24, 2014
Wonderful, Must Read
T.E.D. Ted, Eric, Delsin
This story follows three friends that come from extremely different families, each family having it's own demons. They each have to face the challenges of growing up, peer pressures and becoming comfortable with who they are as a person. The journey through life is not always simple, but these friends come out the other side happier and stronger.
This would be a wonderful book for teens dealing with peer pressure and questioning their sexuality.
T.E.D. Ted, Eric, Delsin
This story follows three friends that come from extremely different families, each family having it's own demons. They each have to face the challenges of growing up, peer pressures and becoming comfortable with who they are as a person. The journey through life is not always simple, but these friends come out the other side happier and stronger.
This would be a wonderful book for teens dealing with peer pressure and questioning their sexuality.
February 9, 2014
This book was so sweet and I had tears in my eyes at times. Well written and full of such loving emotions. Will be reading alot more from Jayson James. This storie truly keeps you reading from start to finish. :)
May 7, 2015
3.5 stars
5 stars on the premise
3 stars on the execution.
I'm not going to nitpick, but I should mention that I read a book like an editor. Perhaps I'm more harsh than other readers, expecting more. I don't offer constructive criticism unless I connect with a story. Just by reviewing this, instead of putting a star rating on it and moving on, I'm showing that I did care for the integrity of the story.
I did read the book cover-to-cover in one sitting. Obviously, I was invested the entire way through. I'm just going to write a few words to explain why I couldn't 5 star a book that most would because of the content explored. I cannot automatically hand 5 stars out, when I feel like I should.
My issues were as such:
Editing, and I don't just mean to catch typos (there were a lot of those, including calling Tim “Time,” but it did not bother me. I felt I should mention it for those it does bother). What did bother me, and made me feel guilty, was redundancy. Redundancy in not only scenes but their content, with jarring jumps from a few paragraph-length scenes to the next. I skimmed a LOT of the text to get to the heart of the story, hence the feeling of guilt that descended upon me. An author took the time to write the words; I should have to read them.
Surrounding Delsin's family life: I felt it. I understood it. (I really, really empathized with it) I felt after hearing his parent's fighting (the same type of context over and over again. SSDD) it took away from the impact. I got just as desensitized as Delsin. It was always riding the story, and never resolved. Delsin was so against bullying, yet he never tried to get his little brother, Jett, and himself to safety from both of their bullies. I would have been inspired if a true resolution was met, so those going through it in life could have read this, had it resonate with them as an instrument of change, and learned more than to ‘ride it out.’
Tim was my second issue. I feel like a heel typing this. Tim was the 1st person narrator with Eric & Delsin being 3rd person (also jarring) We, the readers, are meant to connect with him greatly and empathize. His story was wrought with strife and heartache, but not as badly as Eric & Delsin. Not that is should be more or less difficult for Tim, just it didn't match up with a plot device.
It all felt forced to me. I couldn't buy Tim's depression. He always seemed to take the bullying in stride. (He was narrating in 1st person. Was he an unreliable narrator, because it belied his journal entries?) We were ‘told’ Tim was depressed when his actions and thoughts said he wasn't. His diary read like a 10-year-old boy-crazy girl in part (how easily he went from one crush to the next with no true emotion or substance. I just couldn't buy anything he felt for any character). His stream of consciousness was a lot younger than his age in his journal entries.
I also felt something Tim tried to do didn't match up with his journal entries or monologue. He had a family who supported him (ended up supporting his friends when every other parent in the story was a villain). (While others had to work, he was coddled to within an inch of his life. So maybe he felt uninspired and had no idea why he was on this planet. Even so, it felt like complaining about having the things his friends did NOT have, which made me empathize more with his friends and dislike Tim for always making everything about him). He had friends who supported him (I was confused on the ‘I only have one friend’ when the kid picked them up easily. Always gaining a protector. But kids are blind, so I guess I can get that).
Tim was very narcissistic, and I couldn't connect with him. He worried more on how his friends being gay would reflect on him, making it all about him, while asking the same friends to solve his issues, be by his side, and protect him. A vapid, beaten puppy. Like, you want to punish it so it will learn a lesson. I was seriously struggling to see what Tim's friends saw in him that made them want to befriend him, and I feel like hell for stating that (like I'm being the bully). Other than giving Tim someone who was crushing on him, I felt no growth for him. He was still about himself, still being coddled, and still making me wonder what his crush saw in him when their only common interest did NOT interest Tim. Actually, after reading the book, I have no idea what Tim's interests are. But that was the root of the problem that wasn't explored. Tim was flat because his parents gave him too much so he couldn't grow up. Tim’s voice felt too immature for the age-range and content of the story, and that was what was throwing me off.
It was odd how the author directed the reader in one direction, having both Eric & Delsin want Tim, but then swerved away from it without changing the course. Because of this, I didn't even buy that Tim was straight, and it was 1st person with him over-crushing on girls. Maybe it was his immaturity versus his peers. I don't know. But Tim was written as the perfect victim, who could, yet refused, to stand up for himself. He liked his bully, was empathetic toward his bully, almost to the point I felt he liked being bullied (which didn't teach either of them what they needed to know). So I didn't buy the depression at all when I had access to the thoughts the author felt I should know. I knew the story would turn that way, and it just didn't fit. The (Plot device) vehicle used by Tim would have had more impact by another driver – a more mature driver.
A good story which would have been very profound, life-changing, with a few plot tweaks suggested by an editor.
Reviewed by Erica at Wicked Reads!
Erica was provided a free copy of this book by the blog to read and review for Wicked Reads.
5 stars on the premise
3 stars on the execution.
I'm not going to nitpick, but I should mention that I read a book like an editor. Perhaps I'm more harsh than other readers, expecting more. I don't offer constructive criticism unless I connect with a story. Just by reviewing this, instead of putting a star rating on it and moving on, I'm showing that I did care for the integrity of the story.
I did read the book cover-to-cover in one sitting. Obviously, I was invested the entire way through. I'm just going to write a few words to explain why I couldn't 5 star a book that most would because of the content explored. I cannot automatically hand 5 stars out, when I feel like I should.
My issues were as such:
Editing, and I don't just mean to catch typos (there were a lot of those, including calling Tim “Time,” but it did not bother me. I felt I should mention it for those it does bother). What did bother me, and made me feel guilty, was redundancy. Redundancy in not only scenes but their content, with jarring jumps from a few paragraph-length scenes to the next. I skimmed a LOT of the text to get to the heart of the story, hence the feeling of guilt that descended upon me. An author took the time to write the words; I should have to read them.
Surrounding Delsin's family life: I felt it. I understood it. (I really, really empathized with it) I felt after hearing his parent's fighting (the same type of context over and over again. SSDD) it took away from the impact. I got just as desensitized as Delsin. It was always riding the story, and never resolved. Delsin was so against bullying, yet he never tried to get his little brother, Jett, and himself to safety from both of their bullies. I would have been inspired if a true resolution was met, so those going through it in life could have read this, had it resonate with them as an instrument of change, and learned more than to ‘ride it out.’
Tim was my second issue. I feel like a heel typing this. Tim was the 1st person narrator with Eric & Delsin being 3rd person (also jarring) We, the readers, are meant to connect with him greatly and empathize. His story was wrought with strife and heartache, but not as badly as Eric & Delsin. Not that is should be more or less difficult for Tim, just it didn't match up with a plot device.
It all felt forced to me. I couldn't buy Tim's depression. He always seemed to take the bullying in stride. (He was narrating in 1st person. Was he an unreliable narrator, because it belied his journal entries?) We were ‘told’ Tim was depressed when his actions and thoughts said he wasn't. His diary read like a 10-year-old boy-crazy girl in part (how easily he went from one crush to the next with no true emotion or substance. I just couldn't buy anything he felt for any character). His stream of consciousness was a lot younger than his age in his journal entries.
I also felt something Tim tried to do didn't match up with his journal entries or monologue. He had a family who supported him (ended up supporting his friends when every other parent in the story was a villain). (While others had to work, he was coddled to within an inch of his life. So maybe he felt uninspired and had no idea why he was on this planet. Even so, it felt like complaining about having the things his friends did NOT have, which made me empathize more with his friends and dislike Tim for always making everything about him). He had friends who supported him (I was confused on the ‘I only have one friend’ when the kid picked them up easily. Always gaining a protector. But kids are blind, so I guess I can get that).
Tim was very narcissistic, and I couldn't connect with him. He worried more on how his friends being gay would reflect on him, making it all about him, while asking the same friends to solve his issues, be by his side, and protect him. A vapid, beaten puppy. Like, you want to punish it so it will learn a lesson. I was seriously struggling to see what Tim's friends saw in him that made them want to befriend him, and I feel like hell for stating that (like I'm being the bully). Other than giving Tim someone who was crushing on him, I felt no growth for him. He was still about himself, still being coddled, and still making me wonder what his crush saw in him when their only common interest did NOT interest Tim. Actually, after reading the book, I have no idea what Tim's interests are. But that was the root of the problem that wasn't explored. Tim was flat because his parents gave him too much so he couldn't grow up. Tim’s voice felt too immature for the age-range and content of the story, and that was what was throwing me off.
It was odd how the author directed the reader in one direction, having both Eric & Delsin want Tim, but then swerved away from it without changing the course. Because of this, I didn't even buy that Tim was straight, and it was 1st person with him over-crushing on girls. Maybe it was his immaturity versus his peers. I don't know. But Tim was written as the perfect victim, who could, yet refused, to stand up for himself. He liked his bully, was empathetic toward his bully, almost to the point I felt he liked being bullied (which didn't teach either of them what they needed to know). So I didn't buy the depression at all when I had access to the thoughts the author felt I should know. I knew the story would turn that way, and it just didn't fit. The (Plot device) vehicle used by Tim would have had more impact by another driver – a more mature driver.
A good story which would have been very profound, life-changing, with a few plot tweaks suggested by an editor.
Reviewed by Erica at Wicked Reads!
Erica was provided a free copy of this book by the blog to read and review for Wicked Reads.
September 3, 2014
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
I have not read many books in the young adult gay and lesbian genre, so when I was approached I was a little wary. However, I like to think I have an open mind, so I said yes. I am so glad that I did, because I loved it!
Tim is a wonderful character. I liked him a lot. He is a typical seventeen year old, trying to cope with more than the usual angst; he is quite sensitive and kind. Maybe a little too much, which makes him vulnerable to the school bully. Afraid to report the bully in case of making the situation worse Tim hides it from his family, but his best friend Delsin knows.
Delsin is also a wonderful character. He has been friends with Tim since grade school, and is quite protective of him. Unfortunately, his home life is very dysfunctional and he has problems of his own to deal with; not least of which is knowing he is gay and afraid of his parents' reactions to his news.
Eric is a character that I thought I would love to hate; he is the bully who has been attacking Tim. However, as I got to know him a lot better, I actually felt myself feeling sorry for him. His life is just as angst ridden as the other two characters, but he has a secret that he has been hiding.
I started reading this story and was completely hooked! This tale is told in the alternating points of view of these three characters, which gives the reader a greater insight into their characters. These characters have flaws, which brings them to life. The main voice is Tim's, who uses his journal entries to describe events and his feelings. Each of these three boys have a shared past. Tim and Eric were friends when they were younger, but we never find out why they stopped being friends until further into the book; Tim and Delsin are BFF's and next door neighbours.
Although I really enjoyed meeting these characters, my only complaint about this story was the change from first person (Tim) to third person (Delsin and Eric). This in itself was not really an issue once I got used to it, but it was a bit unsettling at first. However, why the author used this type of narrative becomes clearer further into the story. As the story unfolded, several events in the tale shocked me, and some touched me deeply. However, one event made me realise why Eric bullied people; he is acting out to make himself feel better. Bullies are either jealous, being bullied or are abused themselves. I will leave it to you to find out which category Eric falls into. I reached the end of the story and I found it a bit bittersweet; I was sad to say goodbye to these characters, but happy that they had found peace with themselves and each other.
Jayson James has written a fantastic young adult story that explores several topics that every teen can relate to: bullying, angst, depression, stress, suicide, abuse - sexual, verbal and physical, friendship and love. He brings a sensitivity to these topics so that they do not feel judgmental. Although I have not read any other books by this author, I would certainly consider reading more of his work in the future.
Due to the mention of sex and sexual acts (not explicit), I do not recommend this book to younger readers. However, I highly recommend this book to older teens (16+) and adults who like to read YA or LGBT genres. - Lynn Worton
I have not read many books in the young adult gay and lesbian genre, so when I was approached I was a little wary. However, I like to think I have an open mind, so I said yes. I am so glad that I did, because I loved it!
Tim is a wonderful character. I liked him a lot. He is a typical seventeen year old, trying to cope with more than the usual angst; he is quite sensitive and kind. Maybe a little too much, which makes him vulnerable to the school bully. Afraid to report the bully in case of making the situation worse Tim hides it from his family, but his best friend Delsin knows.
Delsin is also a wonderful character. He has been friends with Tim since grade school, and is quite protective of him. Unfortunately, his home life is very dysfunctional and he has problems of his own to deal with; not least of which is knowing he is gay and afraid of his parents' reactions to his news.
Eric is a character that I thought I would love to hate; he is the bully who has been attacking Tim. However, as I got to know him a lot better, I actually felt myself feeling sorry for him. His life is just as angst ridden as the other two characters, but he has a secret that he has been hiding.
I started reading this story and was completely hooked! This tale is told in the alternating points of view of these three characters, which gives the reader a greater insight into their characters. These characters have flaws, which brings them to life. The main voice is Tim's, who uses his journal entries to describe events and his feelings. Each of these three boys have a shared past. Tim and Eric were friends when they were younger, but we never find out why they stopped being friends until further into the book; Tim and Delsin are BFF's and next door neighbours.
Although I really enjoyed meeting these characters, my only complaint about this story was the change from first person (Tim) to third person (Delsin and Eric). This in itself was not really an issue once I got used to it, but it was a bit unsettling at first. However, why the author used this type of narrative becomes clearer further into the story. As the story unfolded, several events in the tale shocked me, and some touched me deeply. However, one event made me realise why Eric bullied people; he is acting out to make himself feel better. Bullies are either jealous, being bullied or are abused themselves. I will leave it to you to find out which category Eric falls into. I reached the end of the story and I found it a bit bittersweet; I was sad to say goodbye to these characters, but happy that they had found peace with themselves and each other.
Jayson James has written a fantastic young adult story that explores several topics that every teen can relate to: bullying, angst, depression, stress, suicide, abuse - sexual, verbal and physical, friendship and love. He brings a sensitivity to these topics so that they do not feel judgmental. Although I have not read any other books by this author, I would certainly consider reading more of his work in the future.
Due to the mention of sex and sexual acts (not explicit), I do not recommend this book to younger readers. However, I highly recommend this book to older teens (16+) and adults who like to read YA or LGBT genres. - Lynn Worton
July 20, 2015
T.E.D. draws its title from the first initials of its three protagonists, Tim, Eric and Delsin. The three boys were the best of boyhood friends but adolescence and family problems have gotten in the way and now each is miserable and alone in his own way.
Eric is desperately trying to suppress some feelings that he has for Tim that he doesn't fully understand and that could make him an outcast. Unfortunately he's doing it by bullying Tim every chance he gets.
Tim is no one's idea of a macho man and is plagued by his insecurity around the girl he's smitten with. It also plagues him that everyone just seems to assume that he's gay.
Delsin has come to terms with his own feelings and can acknowledge that he's gay. But he's dealing with his parents' constant fighting. He's also worried that coming out may destroy his close friendship with Tim when if anything, he wishes that friendship could be more.
All three characters are sympathetic and the reader soon wants to see each of them beat their demons. However, the prose is perhaps, in some ways, a bit too lifelike. In real life small events can be repetitive and dull but can lead to important changes. In the best prose some of the repetitive and/or boring bits are cut out of the narrative leading us to the right places without the boring bits. Here the author could have spared us some of the repetition, particularly as to Delsin's parents' fights.
Also it was a bit jarring for me that two of the three protagonists' stories were told in third person while one was told in first person. It made the changes in POV more jarring than I think it needed to be.
That said, this story is an important one and worth telling. The anti-bullying message is clear as is the reason that most of the bullying occurred and if one can gain understanding from an enjoyable work of fiction, then it's certainly worth the reading time. The characters are charming, the message important, and the overall story was satisfying. It clearly deserves the kudos that it's received from other reviewers. I just wish that the crafting of the tale were better.
Note: I was given a copy of this by the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Eric is desperately trying to suppress some feelings that he has for Tim that he doesn't fully understand and that could make him an outcast. Unfortunately he's doing it by bullying Tim every chance he gets.
Tim is no one's idea of a macho man and is plagued by his insecurity around the girl he's smitten with. It also plagues him that everyone just seems to assume that he's gay.
Delsin has come to terms with his own feelings and can acknowledge that he's gay. But he's dealing with his parents' constant fighting. He's also worried that coming out may destroy his close friendship with Tim when if anything, he wishes that friendship could be more.
All three characters are sympathetic and the reader soon wants to see each of them beat their demons. However, the prose is perhaps, in some ways, a bit too lifelike. In real life small events can be repetitive and dull but can lead to important changes. In the best prose some of the repetitive and/or boring bits are cut out of the narrative leading us to the right places without the boring bits. Here the author could have spared us some of the repetition, particularly as to Delsin's parents' fights.
Also it was a bit jarring for me that two of the three protagonists' stories were told in third person while one was told in first person. It made the changes in POV more jarring than I think it needed to be.
That said, this story is an important one and worth telling. The anti-bullying message is clear as is the reason that most of the bullying occurred and if one can gain understanding from an enjoyable work of fiction, then it's certainly worth the reading time. The characters are charming, the message important, and the overall story was satisfying. It clearly deserves the kudos that it's received from other reviewers. I just wish that the crafting of the tale were better.
Note: I was given a copy of this by the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 5, 2014
What a great book! I don’t even know where to start. As a straight female who spent almost a decade in a relationship with a gay male and knowing what he went through as a teen – reconciling his sexual orientation with his religion, the gamut of reactions from his family members, and society’s treatment of him – this book elicits such strong emotions from me. Whether we want to believe it or not at the time, most teens deal with feelings of inadequacy, not fitting in, like life is never going to get better, so I found it easy to relate to the boys in that way; but I cannot even begin to imagine having the added pressure of dealing with questions about one’s sexuality, especially in the narrow-minded, small town in which they lived.
T.E.D. was recommended to me as a gay romance/coming of age novel, but it deals with so many more subjects that it saddens me that it may be pigeon-holed into the gay romance genre. It is a young adult book and while it does deal with sexual orientation, there is nothing graphic in the book that would prevent me from recommending it to teens – the only scene that might skate that line is one that I feel is important for them to read. Mr. James addresses bullying, bigotry, suicide, physical and emotional abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, friendship, acceptance, romance, and love. There are so many messages within T.E.D. that are important for teens (and adults) to read that I will be sharing the book with the teens in my life. And because the book is written from the perspective of the Tim, Eric & Delsin, I think most teens would be far more receptive to reading it and taking the underlying messages to heart. I must say “Well done Mr. James and I look forward to reading more of your work.”
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!
T.E.D. was recommended to me as a gay romance/coming of age novel, but it deals with so many more subjects that it saddens me that it may be pigeon-holed into the gay romance genre. It is a young adult book and while it does deal with sexual orientation, there is nothing graphic in the book that would prevent me from recommending it to teens – the only scene that might skate that line is one that I feel is important for them to read. Mr. James addresses bullying, bigotry, suicide, physical and emotional abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, friendship, acceptance, romance, and love. There are so many messages within T.E.D. that are important for teens (and adults) to read that I will be sharing the book with the teens in my life. And because the book is written from the perspective of the Tim, Eric & Delsin, I think most teens would be far more receptive to reading it and taking the underlying messages to heart. I must say “Well done Mr. James and I look forward to reading more of your work.”
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!
September 2, 2014
T.E.D. is one amazing read! I mean AMAZING just simply amazing!
Can you imagine being friends with someone one day and the next not being their friend? Not only are they not your friend but they bully you and their friends bully you as well. As I was reading this book I must admit I was swearing up a storm saying I would hurt someone if they hurt or bullied my best friend and I definitely would not stop being friends with someone because my other friends said so.I mean what the hell is wrong with people? This book brought out the crazy in me and Jayson is an amazing author and I need more from him because he really brought my emotions to the forefront.
Tim, Eric, and Delsin grew up together and were best friends until something happened and Eric stopped being friends with them. But the worst part is that Eric allowed his friends to bully Tim and Delsin was always protecting Tim. The story is one about choices and decisions that the three must make. One will have to decide whether or not he will come out as Gay or not. One will have to decide to stand up to the bullies and one will have to stand up for himself against his family.
What will happen to these three guys?
Can you imagine being friends with someone one day and the next not being their friend? Not only are they not your friend but they bully you and their friends bully you as well. As I was reading this book I must admit I was swearing up a storm saying I would hurt someone if they hurt or bullied my best friend and I definitely would not stop being friends with someone because my other friends said so.I mean what the hell is wrong with people? This book brought out the crazy in me and Jayson is an amazing author and I need more from him because he really brought my emotions to the forefront.
Tim, Eric, and Delsin grew up together and were best friends until something happened and Eric stopped being friends with them. But the worst part is that Eric allowed his friends to bully Tim and Delsin was always protecting Tim. The story is one about choices and decisions that the three must make. One will have to decide whether or not he will come out as Gay or not. One will have to decide to stand up to the bullies and one will have to stand up for himself against his family.
What will happen to these three guys?
September 8, 2017
Not a big YA fan but this story was well written. It shows the pain and joy of teenage life. Ted, Delsin & Eric are portrayed as a bully, a victim and a advocate, all with secrets they are hiding because they are too young and afraid yet to seek help.
August 15, 2014
Tim is in high school trying to find his place in the world and being bullied by an old friend. This is an amazing read that brings the reader into the life of Tim. Everyone at some point has been bullied, this book does hit a few sore spots. However it gives a great look into a life of depression and how if effects the person suffering and their friends and family. It also gives a look into homosexuality, and the struggle to be accepted. Great read, however if either of these topics offend you then know this is not the book for you.
October 19, 2014
Poorly written story with an unconvincing plot. The author fails to convey any emotions to the reader, despite there's quite a lot of drama in the book. I was also missing unique story ideas, that would make the book stand out from other books in this genre, but everything in this book is portrayed in a very general way (bullying, dysfunctional families, coming-out) without any depth.
April 23, 2017
2.5 stars. It was alright. A bit melodramatic.
May 13, 2014
I will sum up my review nicley by stating this isn't my usual type of M/M book I read and it wasn't for me.
February 25, 2015
Nice plot idea, sadly I didn't click with the characters :(
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